Abernethy to continue as interim city manager 

Duncanville—The Duncanville City Council has extended the appointment of Richard B. Abernethy as interim city manager following the resignation of Douglas E. Finch. 

Finch, who had served as city manager since January 2024, stepped down during a special called meeting on Aug. 28 for personal and family reasons. City officials said they would not provide further comment at Finch’s request. 

Abernethy, who joined Duncanville in May as assistant city manager for operations, will continue as the city’s chief executive officer while the council begins its search for a permanent replacement. 

“I’m honored to continue serving as interim city manager and will work to maintain the high level of service our residents expect,” Abernethy said.  

Abernethy brings more than two decades of municipal leadership experience to the role. In Duncanville, he has overseen human resources, information technology, public works, project management, fiscal services and the city secretary’s office. 

His previous roles include director of administrative services in Burleson and Waxahachie, along with multiple leadership positions in Dallas. He holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Texas and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Texas State University. 

The council will conduct a recruitment process to hire a permanent city manager. Updates will be shared on the city’s website and social media channels. 

SOURCE City of Duncanville